Updated
Updated · MMA Fighting · Jun 19
Jon Jones Challenges GOAT Rivals After Pereira Falls Short of 3-Division UFC Title Bid
Updated
Updated · MMA Fighting · Jun 19

Jon Jones Challenges GOAT Rivals After Pereira Falls Short of 3-Division UFC Title Bid

1 articles · Updated · MMA Fighting · Jun 19

Summary

  • Jon Jones posted a now-deleted message daring anyone to "dethrone" him as MMA's GOAT after Alex Pereira was knocked out in the second round by Ciryl Gane.
  • That challenge came after talk that Pereira could overtake Jones with a win at UFC White House and become the first three-division champion in UFC history.
  • Jones' case rests on a résumé that includes becoming UFC's youngest champion in 2011, titles in 2 divisions, 16 UFC title-fight wins and 12 title defenses.
  • His record remains debated because of a disqualification loss, a 2017 no-contest after a positive drug test and legal troubles that twice cost him time and titles.
  • Pereira's defeat halted the latest push to unseat Jones, who signaled he still sees the GOAT standard as his to defend.

Insights

Can any active 'Double Champ' truly challenge the legacy of a retired Jon Jones for the GOAT title?
After failing his historic three-division bid, what is the next legacy-defining challenge for a fighter like Alex Pereira?
Why was the historic UFC White House event, despite its success, declared a one-off never to be repeated?